Americast
BBC News
Americast is the authoritative US news and politics podcast from the BBC.
Each week we provide audiences with the best analysis from across the BBC, with on-the-ground observations and big picture insights about the stories which are defining America right now.
The podcast is hosted by trusted BBC journalists including the BBC’s North America editor, Sarah Smith, BBC Radio 4 presenter, Justin Webb, the BBC’s disinformation and social media correspondent, Marianna Spring, and BBC North America correspondent, Anthony Zurcher.
As well as political analysis, we also specialise in social media. Each week Marianna Spring brings listeners the latest updates from the BBC’s Undercover Voters, our award-winning investigation into the content that is recommended to US voters on social media.
The team is also joined by special guests each week, like CNN anchor, Christiane Amanpour, Emmy Award-winning TV host, Rachel Maddow, and Succession actress, J Smith-Cameron.
Podcasts are published every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. As well as being a podcast, we are also available every Friday on the World Service. Oh, and by the way, you can now listen to Americast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say ‘”Ask BBC Sounds to play Americast”. It works on most smart speakers.
Every Monday we answer your questions on Americanswers, with some help from special guests, including Miles Taylor, who was chief of staff at the Department for Homeland Security during the Trump presidency before becoming a whistleblower. Got a question or a comment? Get in touch with us on email at Americast@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.You can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
Each week we provide audiences with the best analysis from across the BBC, with on-the-ground observations and big picture insights about the stories which are defining America right now.
The podcast is hosted by trusted BBC journalists including the BBC’s North America editor, Sarah Smith, BBC Radio 4 presenter, Justin Webb, the BBC’s disinformation and social media correspondent, Marianna Spring, and BBC North America correspondent, Anthony Zurcher.
As well as political analysis, we also specialise in social media. Each week Marianna Spring brings listeners the latest updates from the BBC’s Undercover Voters, our award-winning investigation into the content that is recommended to US voters on social media.
The team is also joined by special guests each week, like CNN anchor, Christiane Amanpour, Emmy Award-winning TV host, Rachel Maddow, and Succession actress, J Smith-Cameron.
Podcasts are published every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. As well as being a podcast, we are also available every Friday on the World Service. Oh, and by the way, you can now listen to Americast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say ‘”Ask BBC Sounds to play Americast”. It works on most smart speakers.
Every Monday we answer your questions on Americanswers, with some help from special guests, including Miles Taylor, who was chief of staff at the Department for Homeland Security during the Trump presidency before becoming a whistleblower. Got a question or a comment? Get in touch with us on email at Americast@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.You can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 16, 2025 • 28min
Who's Running America... Trump's Defence Chief (Pete Hegseth)
David Phillips, a New York Times correspondent specializing in military affairs, and Sarah Jones, a political analyst for New York Magazine, join to dissect Pete Hegseth's controversial ascent to Secretary of Defense. They explore Hegseth's complex transition from soldier to media figure and analyze his Christian nationalist beliefs. Topics include the deep bonds within Trump's administration, potential gender biases in military leadership, and the implications of Hegseth's ideologies on defense policy and military culture.
10 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 40min
Could Donald Trump stretch the power of the presidency?
Elie Honig, CNN Senior Legal Analyst, dives into the controversial use of executive orders by Donald Trump, questioning their implications for democracy and judicial authority. They discuss the potential for a constitutional crisis if the President defies court rulings and the historical context of presidential power. The conversation also touches on the public's frustration with government effectiveness and the delicate balance between free speech and political accountability in today's polarized landscape.
Feb 14, 2025 • 36min
Our predictions for the year... The 2025 Time Capsule!
The hosts dive into their speculations for 2025, contemplating how many stars might grace the US flag. They reflect on past predictions while debating the implications of a potential government shutdown. The conversation shifts to Donald Trump's legacy and international relations, highlighting tech rivalries between figures like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. Legal challenges facing Jill Biden add another layer of intrigue as they analyze the Democratic Party's strategies for the upcoming midterms and the evolving political landscape.
7 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 22min
Elon Musk's 'Take Your Kid to Work' Day
Elon Musk's surprise press conference in the Oval Office sparked intriguing discussions about the intersection of family and politics. Observing Musk's son alongside him raised questions about the implications of bringing children into public life. The conversation also tackled the steep costs of childcare, contrasting Musk's wealth with everyday family struggles. Furthermore, topics like governmental transparency and the reality behind USAID's funding aimed at health initiatives highlighted the complexities within public perception and accountability.
Feb 11, 2025 • 10min
We Speak to Lord Mandelson (New UK Ambassador to US)
In this conversation, Lord Peter Mandelson, the new British Ambassador to the US and a prominent politician, discusses the complexities of navigating UK-US relations under Trump. He emphasizes the importance of respecting Trump's mandate for change while strengthening ties in defense, security, and technology. The dialogue also touches on differing views on Middle Eastern policies and the challenges of trade tariffs affecting UK exports. With his extensive background, Mandelson offers keen insights into diplomacy in today's polarized environment.
7 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 27min
Americanswers... on 5 Live! Why was Taylor Swift booed at the Super Bowl?
Dive into the drama of the Super Bowl weekend, where Taylor Swift faced unexpected boos and Donald Trump defended Elon Musk. Explore the complex ties between celebrity culture, sports, and politics. Discuss the potential fallout from education budget cuts, scrutinize TikTok's alleged censorship of anti-Trump content, and analyze tariff impacts on domestic industries. The conversation delves into how social media shapes political perceptions and the nuances of decision-making in the current political landscape.
10 snips
Feb 9, 2025 • 29min
Who's Running America...Trump's Tech Bro (Elon Musk)
Molly Ball, Senior Political Correspondent at the Wall Street Journal, offers expert insights into Elon Musk's ties to Donald Trump, while Jim Cantrell, a founding member of SpaceX, shares personal anecdotes about Musk's work style. They discuss Musk's rise from a challenging childhood in South Africa to becoming a political powerhouse. The conversation touches on his ambitions for Mars colonization, his unconventional leadership, and the political implications of his affiliation with Trump's administration, revealing the complexities of a tech mogul's influence.
16 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 33min
Elon Musk vs The U.S. Government
Elon Musk's recent actions under Trump's return to the White House have sparked outrage and fascination. His controversial moves, like proposing buyouts for federal employees and targeting agencies like USAID, have reshaped government dynamics. The discussion explores the unsettling power wielded by unelected individuals in relation to public discourse and political influence. Additionally, parallels are drawn between today’s tech moguls and historical figures, raising critical questions about wealth's impact on democracy and the role of social media in shaping political realities.
Feb 5, 2025 • 29min
Trump on Gaza..."We'll own it"
The podcast dives into Donald Trump's provocative proposal about the U.S. potentially 'owning' the Gaza Strip, sparking widespread controversy. Analysts unpack the ethical dilemmas of turning Gaza into a financial hub amid ongoing humanitarian crises. The discussion also touches on the intense backlash from various communities, including protests and shifting political sentiments. Additionally, a personal anecdote reveals the darker side of wellness culture, contrasting the complexities of political discourse with individual experiences of manipulation.
Feb 3, 2025 • 27min
Americanswers... on 5 Live! What is the impact of Trump's tariffs?
The podcast dives into the shifting trade relations between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, highlighting Trump’s recent tariff decisions. Experts analyze the economic implications of these tariffs and their impact on consumer prices. They discuss Trump’s insensitive comments following a tragic plane crash and the mixed reactions within the conservative community. The conversation also touches on the legacy of Trump’s presidency, drawing parallels with Liz Truss and pondering the challenges of political change. Heroic tales from history inspire hope amidst the political turmoil.
